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The US Navy has awarded a US$736 million (AU$1.09 billion) manufacturing contract to Raytheon for the production of AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missiles.
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This contract is for the improved Block II variant, which addresses hardware obsolescence via a series of upgrades to ensure superior performance and long-term reliability.
AIM-9X is the most advanced infrared-tracking, short-range, air-to-air and surface-to-air missile in the world.
Barbara Borgonovi, president of naval power at Raytheon, said, “AIM-9X remains the weapon of choice for short-range air-to-air and surface-to-air missile defence, and worldwide customer demand is strong.”
Sidewinder is configured for easy installation on a wide range of modern aircraft and provides proven layered defence with ground-launched capabilities, including the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System, or NASAMS, currently being fielded by the Australian Army.
“We’re investing, innovating, and partnering with our US Navy customer to significantly increase our AIM-9X production capacity starting with orders next year,” Borgonovi said.
A US Navy-led joint program with the US Air Force, AIM-9X is used by over 30 allied and partner nations and continues to gain international interest, with the missile in service with the Royal Australian Air Force and Australian Army.
In March 2024, the Czech Republic became the most recent international customer by signing a letter of agreement for procurement of the missile for use on their F-35 aircraft.
The weapon is configured for easy installation on a wide range of modern aircraft, including the F-15C Eagle, F-15E Strike Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon, F/A-18 Super Hornet, E/A-18G Growler, F-22 Raptor and all F-35 Joint Strike Fighter variants.
The AIM-9X Block II missile adds a redesigned fuse and a digital ignition safety device to improve handling and in-flight safety. It’s equipped with updated electronics, including a lock-on after-launch capability using a new weapon data link to support beyond visual range engagements.
Work under this contract will take place in various locations within the continental US through 2029.
